But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD. – Joshua 24:15

One for the album! Photo credit: Helper Mr Edmund Wee of 4th Bintulu using drone.

by Lt. James TC Wong, 4th Miri

MIRI – “Still work in progress,” announced Capt. Loh Pau Joo, President of The Boys’ Brigade in Malaysia in his opening address during the 54th Brigade Council Meeting.

The Brigade President was referring to the revamping of the Exco’s structure and functions. New programs and activities centered on the various sections and age groups needed to stay relevant to the changing times. “But if we work together, I’m sure we will be able to come up with an ideal system for the benefit of our young people,” he added.

The Brigade President also mentioned the revival of the National Bible Quiz after a seven-year abeyance. He extended his thanks to Officers for their action because they had encouraged Members to participate. “I’d like to record a special thanks to Scripture Union Malaysia and Pristine World for partnering with us in making the revival of this quiz possible.”

Other important items articulated by the Brigade President included the Constitutional Review, and a revamp in the Seniors’ Section syllabus and programs that would help Officers in better carrying out awards syllabus in schools.

In winding-up his speech, Capt. Loh said, “Moving into my final year as Brigade President, I ask that you join me in prayer that the Lord our God will send the right volunteers and groom the next generation of leadership.”

He reiterated that he was encouraged and pleased with the current younger and proactive Exco this term. “With more young people coming onboard, I’m confident that BB Malaysia is in good hands. Indeed our hope has always been in our Heavenly Father, who has given us this hope like an anchor, that is ever Sure and Stedfast. For those of us already in the Brigade, it is our calling and responsibility to carry out the BB Object, which in many ways is a reflection of the Great Commission but with an additional educational aspect to it. It is our role to serve our young people, and indeed, serving God with our very best,” he concluded.

Over 170 delegates from the various State Councils throughout the country attended the AGM in Miri from April 20-21.

Much to delight of the guests and delegates, a pua kumbu (Sarawak Iban traditional shawl) and a colorful-beaded native necklace were presented to Datuk Bandar Adam as he entered into the hotel foyer for the Indigenous Welcoming dance performed by SMK Bakong (1st Beluru).

In his welcoming speech, Datuk Bandar Adam thanked Brigade Malaysia for inviting him to officiate the event. The good Mayor also welcomed all the delegates and congratulated the Miri team for doing an excellent job in coordinating the organizing of the event. “Well done, Sarawak Boys’ Brigade – YOU BOLEH!” commended Datuk Bandar Adam.

Datuk Bandar Adam also challenged the Boys’ Brigade to reach out to more rural schools. “Learning in classrooms has its merits and limitations. To equip our young people to become committed and responsible citizens, it is imperative to bring them to learn outside the classroom too. This is where The Boys’ Brigade comes in. May I suggest that you introduce your BB program to more rural schools because I believe the rural students will benefit tremendously through activities that inculcate discipline and leadership skills,” added Datuk Bandar Adam.

Lauding the event in Miri, visiting delegates had these comments to say:

“First of all I would like to congratulate Bro James and team for hosting a wonderful BCM in Miri. Appreciate the personal pick-up from the airport upon my arrival. It’s these small gestures of personal touch to see to the needs of the guests which makes your service 1st Class. I enjoyed my first trip to Miri very much and the fellowship and catching up with old friends in the BCM. All our needs were very well taken care of by the host. Well done and thank you!” – Capt. Jason Chong, 1st Johor Bahru

“A great BCM 2018 meeting, well organised with great support from B.B. companies in Malaysia. Really glad to Sarawak Northern region team willing to take up the challenges and working together for this annual event. It is a real great experience to me ! All Glory to Our Lord! Thank you!” – BB Sarawak State Commissioner Hon. Capt. Hii King Ong

“Everything was excellent; the food and accomodation were ‘mou tak teng’ … which is a bit out of BCM norm, haha!” – Capt. SP Lin, 1st Kota Kemuning

BCM 2018 Miri-based Organizing Chairman Hon. Capt. Lawrence Wong praised the efficiency and unity of the Miri team. “I also wish to express my heartfelt thanks 1st Bintulu for sending us two trumpeters and two drummers when we needed them for the Guard-of-Honor. All glory to God!”

The Brigade Council Malaysia Committee wishes to acknowledge and thank the Sarawak Convention Bureau for their generous sponsorship of door gifts and banners to the event.

Flor Nera Woodford reminisces the sweet Methodist International Fellowship Night in Kapit way back in Dec 1964. At her left hand is the Bentara Bintang Sarawak (BBS) Award to her late husband.

A tribute to Lt. Edward Woodford of 4th Miri Company, The Boys’ Brigade in Malaysia

By Lt. James TC Wong, 4th Miri Coy

My wife Roseline first received news of Eddy’s passing via her Whatsapp a day after our return from Sibu whereby over the weekend, we had attended the Boys’ Brigade Sarawak State Council’s AGM and 1st Sibu Company’s 50th Anniversary celebration.

Though we knew Eddy’s health and gait had deteriorated over the past few years, and conditions worsened a couple of months ago, still the news of our former BB Officer’s demise ached our hearts.

Roseline received a call on the afternoon of March 19 from Amy Lau of GMC, asking if she would be attending Eddy’s funeral wake. Amy had also hoped that my wife could share a few words during the wake as Captain of 4th Miri which Eddy had served previously for more than 10 years. Sensing my wife’s sad apprehension, I quickly volunteered to do it on her behalf.

The wake was held at a commercial funeral home at Riam at 5:00pm on Mar 20, a day after Eddy’s passing. Most of the people present were from GMC. Pastor Linberg Wong, from Agape Grace Methodist Preaching Centre, led in prayer. He also spoke fondly of Eddy, and so did Alex Tiang and Keith Chin who reminisced the good times they shared in mission trips and church activities.

Below is the full text of my eulogy delivered during the wake service:

Rev. Law Hui Seng, the previous Pastor-in-charge of GMC, has also asked me to convey his deepest condolences.

The writer of the Book of Ecclesiastes writes:

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

For us today, we have lost a wonderful, church brother. For the bereaved family, Flor has lost a loving husband, and the family; a caring dad, granddad.

It would be time to break down, a time to moan, a time to weep, a time to heal; and a time to build up in due course.

The loss of someone dear can be sometimes surreal and traumatic.

I, for one could not accept it when my dad suddenly passed away in 1986.

And at that time my wife and I just started working in Brunei and our first born son Aaron never had the chance to meet his granddad.

It took me years to get over my grief because I loved my dad so much.

We, at 4th Miri Company also love Eddy and Flor.

Eddy together with Flor, were part of the founding Officers in 2002 when 4th Miri was formed. Pastor Law Hui Seng was a strong supporter of the Boys’ Brigade Ministry. Led by Honorary Captain Mr Frederick Wong, the team of dedicated Officers and Helpers began the ministry by recruiting Juniors from Sri Mawar Primary School because the church simply didn’t have the numbers.

Now into our 17th year, 4th Miri Company, our church-based ministry has expanded to two schools with membership adding the Sarawak’s BB membership to 4,000 members in 40 Companies.

Like all church ministries, we face challenges from time to time. But we are encouraged by Eddy’s “I can do it” attitude. Eddy and Flor never stopped serving in 4th Miri if they could. They only stopped during the past few years when they faced frailty and health issues.

Many of you know Eddy as the cheerful and happy-go-lucky man. But I can say many of you don’t know that Eddy was instrumental in setting up a BM ministry that eventually led to the formation of Tudan Methodist Church.

In 2005, Eddy proposed to Rev Law Hui Seng to start a BM ministry in the areas of Pujut 7 and Tudan. The first family contacted were the Gemongs. Together with 20 others, Mr Gemong and his family were the first group to be baptized. During Tudan outreach, Eddy and Flor together with several GMC members like Mr and Mrs William Ketit, Mr and Mrs Mak Mek, Margaret Lee and Audrey Lui persevered relentlessly in the BM ministry.

Eddy was also passionate on short-term missions to Ulu Belaga, Kapit, Balingian and Rh. Tatom in Selangau. His talent in languages and dialects made his a ‘people’s person’ – easy to relate to and get along with.

Eddy is my role model. Eddie never missed any prayer meeting for no good reason. At that time, prayer meeting was on Tuesday night. I would see him and Flor seated at the aisle left seats.

It was hardly surprising to see him present or participate at church events because he made the effort to be available.

I want to thank God for sending Eddy to me and my family, to 4th Miri Company.

Born Edward Kenneth Thomson Woodford in 1937 in Kuching to an Australian father and an Iban mother, Eddy grew up and studied in Sri Aman and Kuching. He worked as an Overseer in the District Council from 1961-1967 in Kapit.

In early 1960s, many Americans believed they were standing at the dawn of a golden age. Kapit soon became a thriving evangelism hub for American-sponsored Methodist missionaries as they built school and hostel to cater for the local indigenous children’s education.

Eddy and Flor in Kapit. Photo credit: Flor Nera Woodford.

It was in Kapit that Eddy met and fell in love with his future wife. The beautiful, petite Methodist missionary Florentina Nera hailed from San Roque, San Manuel, Pangasinan, The Philippines. Initially Florentina was reluctant to commit to a relationship as she was on a working contract. Eventually true love prevailed and the couple tied the knot on Dec 18, 1965 at Kapit Methodist Church with the wedding service conducted by Reverends Burr Baughman, Joseph Andrew Fowler and Terence Joseph.

Eddy and Flor taking a stroll by the river in Kapit. Photo credit: Flor Nera Woodford.

Over the years, Eddy also worked in commercial companies in Sarikei, Bandar Seri Begawan and Seria before joining Sarawak Shell Berhad. He retired in 1992. Besides actively serving in church ministries, Eddy was also passionate in community services and deserving of the ‘Bentara Bintang Sarawak’ (BBS Award) in 2000 by the then TYT Sarawak Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng.

Daughter Sharon remembered her dad with much love and gratitude. “Dad was strict and straightforward. He seldom raised his voice or got angry. He was responsible and looked out for his family whenever he could. Dad was thrifty but not with time. He would make time for his family and other people who needed his help. He didn’t express his love but I know he loved us a lot.”

The Boys’ Brigade Sarawak State Council Executive Secretary Lt Hu Wei Ung commended the dedication of Eddy and his wife. “Despite their advanced years, Eddy and Flor were always enthusiastic about BB and the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom. We were very privileged that they were our team in Sarawak,” he added.

This Easter, as I conclude this tribute, and when no words are enough to express our gratitude to Lt Edward Woodford – let us take a moment to ponder and appreciate the ‘Eddys’ in our lives; the Officers (past and present) who dedicated themselves unconditionally to The Boys’ Brigade. Sure and Stedfast, all glory to God!

Feb 3, Miri – Learning in classrooms has its merits and limitations. To equip our young people to become committed and responsible citizens, it is imperative to bring them to learn outside the classroom too.

As such, The Boys’ Brigade in Malaysia Sarawak Northern Region, organized a Rakan Muda briefing for their Members at Mei Ann Methodist Church.

The Rakan Muda Award, first introduced in the United Kingdom in 1956 as The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, is recognized by the Malaysian government. It is available to all 14-24 year olds and is the world’s leading youth achievement award.

According the website http://www.intaward.org, this prestigious Award, since its launch over 60 years ago, has inspired millions of young people to transform their lives through non-formal educational activities.

To qualify for the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards, every participant needs to be in active involvement of voluntary and challenging activities for six consecutive months that encourage Service, Skills, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey.

An active Q and A followed after the briefing.

In closing, a gift of appreciation was presented by Capt. Patrick Tiong of 2nd Miri Coy to Mr Rynnille.

One for the album – awesome moments enjoyed by the children from Gereja Methodist Tudan!

by James TC Wong

I was in for a surprise when I received a call from my friend yesterday. “James, I know this is very last minute but can you help me invite 20 children from needy families? Pullman would like to treat them to a scrumptious buffet,” Pat requested.

My heart warmed as her words resonated in my mind. “Of course, I can. Give me an hour to get back to you,” I replied.

Opened for business in April 2016, the prestigious Pullman Waterfront is the only international 5-star hotel in Miri known for its warm hospitality, excellent services and facilities. I was told by Pat that the hotel, during this Yuletide season, would be hosting a Christmas buffet for the first time for underprivileged children, as well as the kids from Methodist Children’s Home.

I quickly contacted Pastor Nicholas Tan of Gereja Methodist Tudan, telling him the invitation. He thanked me and asked for time to make arrangement. Shortly, the good shepherd called to confirm that the church would be sending 17 children, accompanied by 2 adults.

With Christmas just 4 days away, Pullman’s generosity has reminded me of 2 Cor 8:7 (KJV): Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

Before 5 p.m., Pastor called again. Can we add in two more kids because we had a short count, he asked. In haste, I told him no because we had confirmed the attendance figure with the hotel already. After the phone call, my heart felt heavy. I called up Pat again and told her the Pastor’s request. Why not, she said without hesitation, count them in!

Pastor was elated when I relayed him the latest update. Unbeknownst to me, Pastor subsequently revealed that he would be forced to make a difficult choice of leaving two kids out had the host was not magnanimous.

I’m truly glad. An act of generosity given and extended – Christ was glorified!

Lord Jesus, you meet our needs in surprising ways sometimes. Continue to use us often to do that for others .

NOV 11, MIRI – As the second semester examinations draw near, Senadin Methodist Preaching Centre (SMPC) members took ownership to cook Love Soup (chicken soup) to a delighted group of more than 160 Curtin undergraduates and guests last evening.

SMPC Seniors serving with a smile.

Pastor-in-charge Rev. Jabez Tiong welcomed everyone in the packed centre. In his opening message, the good shepherd thanked the pioneering batch of church volunteers and praised them for their love toward the students.”Tonight is rather special. I am indeed blessed to say that we now have more members from SMPC than the pioneer volunteers cooking the chicken soup for this event. This is a significant breakthrough for us and I thank God.”

It’s a blessing to serve and be served.

Initiated eight years ago by a Small Group from Grace Methodist Church, the Love Soup is served twice a year before every semester examination. Chicken Soup is traditionally served in Asian families and is known to enhance mental alertness and energy for students in preparation for examinations.

Christian love in action; Methodist missionary Karen Goh.

For SCAC Methodist missionary Karen Goh, it was an eye-opener as she volunteered to serve the Love Soup for the first time. Based in Japan for the past four years, Goh praised SMPC in her short message of encouragement. “Most churches organize in-house fellowship gatherings for their own members but this evening, I could see there are also non-Christian friends present. This is a very good way to conduct outreach to our unchurched friends. Rev Jabez, you have done a great job,” Goh voiced.

The smiles say it all.

“I was very touched tonight. The feeling is the same when Mum cooked chicken soup for me at home in Sekinchan. Though home is far away, I can still have a bowl of love soup that makes me warm. I appreciate it much. This also shows I am not lonely in my university life with everyone in the church caring and loving me. Thanks for sending this love to me,” said Lim Jin En, who is in Year One Accounting.

Uplifting Praise & Worship before the dinner starts.

Roland Soh, a Year One undergraduate taking Bachelor of Technology, was thankful and appreciative of the heartwarming soup. “Unlike the soup sold in the Kopi Tiam, the soup provided is less salty, thus nutritionally good for us. Thanks for the lovely soup and thanks to those who spent time for cooking!”

One for the album!

In closing, a group photo was taken after the end of the dinner to remember the happy event.

Celebrating BB Sabah 50th Anniversary, the presentation ceremony took place at Putera Theatre Ballroom on Oct 8, 2017 in the capital city of Sabah.

The President’s Badge is only presented to the top percentile of NCOs who have completed the demanding requirements in leadership and service in the community. The applicant must be a current Member of minimum 15 years of age. He or she must have completed Christian Education and the required Proficiency Awards, and also undergo a stringent character assessment endorsed by relevant parties.

Tang first joined 4th Miri Coy in 2010 as a 13-year-old Senior. A 2nd Year Undergraduate majoring in History, Tang is currently pursuing his tertiary education at the Institute of Teacher Education Gaya Campus and serves in 3rd Kota Kinabalu Coy.

“Thank God for His perfect timing and grace. God has done a splendid work in my Brigade life beyond my dreams. I’ve never expected to be one of the President’s Badge recipients when I first enrolled in 2010,” Tang commented after receiving award.

Staff Sergeant Tang (in blue sash) is the first BB Member in Miri City to receive The President’s Badge.

“Throughout the years in 4th Miri, I found Jesus Christ is my Personal Savior whom I must serve with integrity and reverence. Although our Coy was small and limiting in manpower resources, it built up my humility and character. I was promoted to the rank of Sergeant before leaving for my tertiary studies,” Tang added. “God has preserved my service in BB as I embarked to join 3rd Kota Kinabalu, a Coy with dedicated and committed Members. Serving there, I also uphold the responsibility in conducting Junior Award classes and mentoring drill performances. By God’s grace, I was appointed to Staff Sergeant in April 2016. I wish to thank all the Officers from 4th Miri Coy and 3rd KK Coy for their tireless sacrifices in the BB ministry. Last but not least, I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to my parents for allowing me to enrol in BB in 2010.”

4th Miri Coy Captain Roseline Lee was elated to know that Tang became the first BB Member in Miri City to receive the President’s Badge. “In Sarawak we have more than 40 Members who have already received this prestigious award but this is a first in Miri, all glory to God! We are strongly encouraged by Tang when he received the President’s Badge. We would like to congratulate him for his perseverance and passion as a youth leader in The Boys’ Brigade,” said Captain Roseline.

THE METHODISTS in Sarawak traditionally hold the Pastors’ Appreciation Sunday in the month of June. This is usually done during a Sunday Worship service when pastors would take a break and together with the congregation, listen to a guest or Lay preacher preach. Towards the end of the service, a simple presentation of cake-cutting or gift of flower bouquets would follow. Sometimes snippets of appreciation from the pew are read out too.

Last evening, my wife and I had the opportunity to appreciate two pastors dear to us. When informed of Rev. Winnie Lau’s invitation to a hotpot dinner, Roseline decided to bake a cake to appreciate the former and also one for Rev. Lisa Ting whom we knew would be attending too.

Another cake for Rev. Lisa.

Rev. Lisa, presently the pastor-in-charge of Sibu Wesley Methodist Church, had served in my former church in Miri. During her 4-year tenure, Rev. Lisa was a good shepherd to all. She loved her congregation. I remember when a bereaved fellow church member lost her husband in Kuching, Rev. Lisa took a flight there to console her. Rev. Lisa was overjoyed when a church brother’s ailing dad accepted Christ and wept when he passed away shortly after baptism. Applying a collective leadership style, Rev. Lisa was a strong supporter in the church’s ministries and encouraged church leaders to attend courses to deepen their spiritual walk with Jesus Christ. She was an ardent supporter of The Boys’ Brigade and encouraged my family members as we served in the Love Soup and Tudan Christmas outreach together with our team of church volunteers.

Enjoying cooking with the hotpot.

A pastor at Sibu Zion Methodist Church, Rev. Winnie is our new but very close relative. She addresses Roseline and I as ‘Qing Mu’ and ‘Qing Jia’ because her youngest sister Tina is our daughter-in-law. Roseline and I were very touched when Rev. Winnie insisted on treating us to dinner. I told my wife that it should be us giving the treat but the good pastor wouldn’t hear of it!

Rev. Lisa serves the garnishing.

In the midst of our fellowship dinner, it dawned upon me that these two young pastors shall be in the future team of leaders leading Sarawak Methodists. Listening to their conversation on church-related ministries, I thank God for their humility and servant leadership.

One for the album!

Last Wednesday, I also met up with Rev. Sii Hee Tiong, the Field Director of SCAC Missions Board. Wanting to get feedback on his ministry from a congregational member, Rev. Sii asked me questions and received frank answers.

Welcome

By God’s grace, I am blessedly married for 34 years now with two grown sons, a daughter-in-law and a happy granddaughter. This is, what I consider to be, the greatest achievement in my life.

In my leisure, I enjoy blogging about my real-life experiences. I’m also a food enthusiast and I love cooking for my family and close friends. Who knows, one day, you might be invited to a home-cooked meal at my house, lol!